Whether decay or trauma has taken its toll on your teeth, a skilled dentist can remove the damaged parts, clean them up, and then infuse the hollow with a filler material. This acts as a revival technique for your teeth, more like a protective barrier, keeping bacteria at bay. There are multiple options when it comes to dental fillings, carefully curated over time and designed to cater a modified issue. However, every new improvement came along with a sacrifice of quality in term of strength. This is why, every filling material has its set of advantages and disadvantages. If you are due to make a choice, take this blog as your initial guide to make a well thought through decision.
Types of Tooth Fillings | Advantages and Disadvantages
Amalgam Fillings
This filler material is basically an alloy, constituting larger parts of silver and mercury, while other metals present in smaller quantities. It is one of the oldest options for tooth fillings, designed and redesigned time and again.
Advantages
- Cheaper than other filler materials.
- Shows low shrinking ability; therefore, less to no leakage.
- Has extensive durability.
- They can endure strong biting forces.
- Usually set in a single visit.
- Resistant to decay.
Disadvantages
Amalgam is not aesthetically appealing due to its color difference compared to natural teeth.
Amalgam filling in the tooth requires healthy tooth destruction. If the residues are not well handled, they can pollute the environment as well.
Composite Fillings
This type is made up of acrylic resin and powdered glass. Their physical appearance is like that of a natural tooth. They can harden on their own or can easily be cured with the help of UV light.
Advantages
- The best part is how they look on your teeth. Composite fillings are pleasing since multiple shades are available that match the natural tooth color.
- You only have to spare one visit.
- Composite fillings are durable and can withstand moderate biting forces. Therefore, they are used in both front and back teeth.
- There is no need to destroy the tooth structure; there is zero corrosion and a low risk of breaking if bonded well over the enamel layer.
Disadvantages
- Composite fillings cost more than their counterparts.
- They are not as strong as amalgam.
- Their placement in teeth is not as easy.
- Composite fillings can leak as time passes if bonded below the dentin surface.
Glass Ionomer
A mix of acrylic acid and fine glass powders is usually applied to the cavities on the root surface and in areas that do not have strong biting forces. Other than that, they serve the purpose of cementing crowns.
Advantages
- It looks aesthetically pleasing because of its resemblance to natural tooth structure.
- Glass ionomers contain fluoride, which provides prophylaxis against caries.
- They preserve tooth structure during placement and are completed in a single visit.
- Allergic reactions are rare.
Disadvantages
- Limited application since it cannot withstand strong biting forces.
- They cost more than other options available.
- Glass ionomers may become rough with age, allowing plaque to build up and, consequently, causing dental caries to develop.
Resin Ionomer
They consist of a glass filler, acrylic acids, and acrylic resins, usually used for fillings on non-chewing substances and for fillings on milk teeth.
Advantages
- They look good, even more translucent than glass ionomer, which makes them resemble dentin better.
- They are easily placed in a single visit.
- Healthy tooth structure is preserved.
- Their life is longer than glass ionomers, albeit not as long as composite does, and the fluoride it contains is prophylactic against caries.
Disadvantages
- Limited application.
- It is moderately costly and wears off fast, so it needs periodic replacement.
Porcelain
They are used to make indirect restorations such as crowns, veneers, inlays, and on-lays. Usually, it is used in combination with a metal to make porcelain fused to a metal crown.
Advantages
- Aesthetically pleasing.
- Good resistance to further decay.
- Resistant to surface wear.
- Due to its precise fitting, it does not leak; therefore, there are no issues of secondary cavity development.
- Allergic reactions to it are rare.
Disadvantages
- Porcelain is brittle and thus can easily break.
- They are expensive and need a minimum of two visits to the dentist.
Gold alloys
As the name suggests, they contain gold, copper, and other metals. Gold, being the top-ranked metal it is, forms a strong and efficient material for crowns, bridges, on-lays, and inlays.
Advantages
- No corrosion
- Excellent durability
- Resistant to bite forces
- No risk of leakage
Disadvantages
- It is expensive and does not resemble real tooth color, making it an unsuitable option for those who are interested in getting a stealth look.
- It can be inconvenient because it needs more than a single appointment to be placed.
Deciding on the Right Filling – Which Option Should You Choose?
You can leave it to your dentist to make the final call, as they possess the knowledge and expertise to choose what is best for your case. However, do communicate with them and factor in parameters like cost if you are set on a budget.
There is no need to struggle with cavities in your teeth and grapple in pain; get dental filling by booking an appointment with our skilled dentist. We can craft a tailored and affordable treatment plan to ensure your smile reflects health and radiates confidence.
Closing Note
Remember, each filler material has its unique advantages and disadvantages. While the choices are many, get help from a professional to decide according to your specific situation. You can also leave it to the professionals at Trinity Dental Centers to guide you through this journey, restoring your smile with precision and care. Dial (281) 724-4510 to connect with us.
